How Long Will My Child Have to Wear Braces?

wear braces

Your entire family is looking forward to the day when those annoying orthodontic appliances will finally come off. Your kid will be free from the dietary restrictions, and you’ll be free from listening to the complaints!

Your question now is: how much longer until those braces can be removed?

Types Of Orthodontic Treatment

Your child’s orthodontic appliance plays a large role in determining the length of treatment. Each type of orthodontics has a specific goal. Some kinds focus on only a few teeth at a time. Others aim to correct major alignment problems with the bite.

Some orthodontic options include:

  • Metal Braces
  • Invisalign
  • Headgear
  • Ceramic Braces
  • Lingual Braces
  • Expanders

Not only is the type of treatment a factor, but the individual’s unique situation has perhaps the biggest bearing on the length of treatment.

We as an orthodontic specialist, do what we can, but there are no forcing teeth to move faster than they want to. If the case is complicated with lots of overlapping teeth or limited space, then treatment will take more time.

Timing Is Everything

On average, most people need to wear braces for up to two years to see full results. Some are half that time. The best way to shorten your child’s treatment time is to get treatment started as soon as possible.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), it’s best for your child to get their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This is a good age at which Dr. Ahmad can get an idea of how your child’s teeth are coming in.

If early intervention is recommended, this can shorten the amount of time your son or daughter will be in braces as a teenager.

Make The Most Of Your Child’s Treatment

Braces may be a hindrance at times, but as long as your child’s teeth are clean and healthy during treatment, they’ll be in great shape once the wires come off. Dr. Ahmad can give your family recommendations to follow that will keep treatment time to the most effective minimum possible.

Contact Brackets Wires & Smiles today to schedule your child’s first evaluation with Dr. Farooq Ahmad.